Our Columbia Union Conference family grieves for the families of those killed and wounded in the senseless and tragic shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. These fellow Sabbathkeepers were exercising their right to gather and worship God with liberty of conscience and freedom.

We denounce the hatred and evil behind this attack, and join our voices with those who are calling for an end to the violence that has torn the families of these faithful worshippers and too many other families apart.

When one hurts, we all hurt.

In this difficult moment, we are praying for the people of Pittsburgh and for the Tree of Life congregation. And we are here to help.

May we find solace and comfort in the prayer of the psalmist, David, who wrote:

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever” (Psalm 23:4-6, NKJV).